Yard work can be quite demanding, whether you’re mowing, digging, fertilizing, planting, or trimming. All of these tasks are very hands-on, and require manual labor, especially any weed removal, and grass or bush trimming.
Thankfully, there are countless tools out there to help with yard maintenance. Garden shears are great, but they require more demanding physical labor. Researching and shopping for the right trimmer alone is a daunting process, nevermind shopping for the right trimmer line.
We did the hard work for you and compiled the best trimmers for you to choose from!
Continue reading for an in depth review of the 7 best trimmer lines, how to weed out the best trimmer line, and 3 honorable mentions!
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Our Top Picks
Product | Details | ||
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall: Cyclone Desert Extrusion .095” x 855’ Commercial Trimmer Line | This trimmer line offers great strength and proves to be hardwearing. | Check Price | |
Runner Up: Vortex Trimmer Line .095 X 1140′ 5 Large Spool | Offering great quality, Vortex Trimmer Line is a solid choice for most of your landscaping needs. | Check Price | |
Best .080 Trimmer Line: DEWALT String Trimmer Line, 225-Feet by 0.080-Inch | A product made to fit DEWALT standards, you won’t be disappointed by this .080” diameter trimmer line! | Check Price | |
Best Maxpower Trimmer Line: Maxpower Residential Grade Round .095-Inch Trimmer Line 855-Foot Length | Maxpower offers a range of different trimmer lines, this Trimmer Line is arguably the best. | Check Price | |
Best Grass Trimmer Line: Stihl Trimmer Line .095″ Orange 1 Lb Roll | Looking for a reliable, sturdy trimmer line for light maintenance? Look no further than Stihl! | Check Price | |
Best Heavy Duty Trimmer Line: Oregon Heavy-Duty Professional Magnum Gatorline Square String Trimmer Line | Oregon is based in the USA to deliver heavy duty strength without emptying your pockets! | Check Price |
How to Narrow Down the Best Trimmer Line
To find the greatest trimmer line options, we looked at some of the best brands. We gathered a lot of information on trimmer lines of varying designs, qualities, features, and sizes.
This search brought up companies like DEWALT, a well known brand for power, and hand tools. They have been in the tool industry for almost 100 years!
There were other great brands such as Maxpower, Stihl, and Husqvarna, all offering great trimmer lines for different purposes.
By observing these brands, and noting what makes for a great trimmer line, we were able to create a criteria for good trimmer lines to meet. This same criteria was used to narrow down the best trimmer lines available for purchase.
Many factors play into what makes a product great. For the sake of simplicity, this review will focus on durability, longevity, and effectiveness. Was the line able to withstand normal use, did it serve its intended use properly over extended periods of time, and did it do the job well?
Initially, we found about 18 great products with potential for being the best trimmer lines. Ultimately, through careful consideration, 10 of the best trimmer lines made it on the Top Picks list!
Here’s our in depth review of 7 Best Trimmer Lines, and 3 honorable mentions that almost made the list.
Best Trimmer Line Reviews
1. Best Overall: Cyclone Desert Extrusion .095” x 855’ Commercial Trimmer Line
Product Ratings
Affordability | 4.5/5 |
Effectiveness | 5.0/5 |
Durability | 4.5/5 |
Longevity | 4.0/5 |
Features: Diameter: .095” | Length: 855’ | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Color: Orange | Shape: 6 Bladed
What We Liked
- Powerful
- Cuts through most weeds, grass, and shrubs
- Multiple use applications
What We Didn’t Like
- Likely to break upon contact with hard surfaces (walls, pavement, fences)
When we tested the Cyclone Desert Extrusion Trimmer Line we knew it had to be our top choice for best trimmer line!
Here’s how this product made the top of the list.
Durability
This trimmer line offered a solid performance all around. The line is rigid, making for a relatively powerful and precise cut.
The quality of the lines offers more power, and longevity. This power is thanks to the 6-bladed shape of the line!
However, due to its rigidity the line is more likely to snap or break upon impact. A slight snag on a branch or a rock may not be the end of the world.
That said, it’s possible for the line to break or wear down if it hits cement or chain link fences, for eample, especially if it’s continuous.
Longevity
This is an overall great commercial grade trimmer line. It can cover most of your trimming and cutting needs.
It endured most work, whether trimming thick tall grass, ever growing vines, or strong pesky weeds, we were able to rely on this line for quite some time.
Given the price point, we feel we got great use over time out of this trimmer line!
Effectiveness
The Cyclone Desert Extrusion trimmer line exceeded expectations. It cut right through just about any grass no matter how tough. Weeds, and vines were quickly and easily sliced through, as well.
This trimmer line works great against most vegetation, and is an excellent asset for commercial landscapers and home gardeners alike!
Having trouble with weeds in your garden and want to protect your plants? Consider taking a look at our review of the Best Weed Barriers!
See Price on Amazon2. Runner Up: Vortex Trimmer Line .095 X 1140′ 5 Large Spool
Product Ratings
Affordability | 4.5/5 |
Effectiveness | 4.5/5 |
Durability | 4.5/5 |
Longevity | 4/5 |
Features: Diameter: .095” | Length 1140’ | Weight: 4.54 lbs | Color: Black | Shape: Spiral
What We Liked
- Durable material
- Requires less power from trimmer
- Precision cutting
What We Didn’t Like
- Split ends
Coming in at a close second after the Cyclone is the Vortex Trimmer Line. Offering durability and precision using less power than other contenders, this trimmer line is an obvious choice.
Wondering why? Take a look at the in depth review on this trimmer line below!
Durability
Made of nylon vortex this trimmer line is spiral shaped, giving it great strength and longevity. Vortex trimmer line proved to be built to last and handled regular use.
However, there were some instances of the line ends splitting when in use.
This usually occurred if the lines came in contact with hard corrosive surfaces such as pavement repeatedly. Caution when trimming along edges is recommended.
Longevity
This trimmer line can be used commercially or residentially. The 5-pound spool along with the durability and cutting power of the line allows for various applications of use for extended periods.
Whether using this for a client’s property or your own, it’ll get the job done, time and time again.
Effectiveness
The strength this trimmer line offers made it super effective against most weeds, grass, and bushes. Not only was it able to cut through most greenery with ease, it did so with great accuracy.
Vortex trimmer line offered a smooth cut each time, giving a beautiful finish to any lawn. Landscaping and trimming is vital for more than just a pretty lawn.
Check out this article on 5 Reasons Why Landscaping Matters!
See Price on Amazon3. Best .080 Trimmer Line: DEWALT String Trimmer Line, 225-Feet by 0.080-Inch
Product Ratings
Affordability | 4.5/5 |
Effectiveness | 4.5/5 |
Durability | 4/5 |
Longevity | 4.5/5 |
Features: Diameter: .080” | Length: 225’ | Weight: 9.6 oz | Color: Brown with Gold
What We Liked
- Reliable
- Good for light yard work
- Damage and tear resistant material
What We Didn’t Like
- Not the best for tougher landscaping
- Can be difficult to untangle
DEWALT Trimmer Line gives you quality and effectiveness at a fair price. So, what caught our eye about this product?
Durability
Since this trimmer line is made of impact resistant material, it provided great resistance to most grass, and even weeds 3 feet tall! It was most durable when used for light yard work, with light vegetation.
Longevity
This trimmer withheld strength and durability for extended periods of use during light yard work. You can definitely rely on DEWALT trimmer Line for a while.
Over time, however, the line does wear down due to continued contact with rough surfaces, or when used against tougher, thicker grass, hedges, and weeds.
Effectiveness
If you’re looking for a trimmer line for personal use, or even light commercial use, this trimmer line is a catch. It cuts right through most grassy turfs and weeds.
The line is also precise, offering an accurate cut each time!
See Price on Amazon4. Best Maxpower Trimmer Line: Maxpower Residential Grade Round .095-Inch Trimmer Line 855-Foot Length
Product Ratings
Affordability | 4/5 |
Effectiveness | 4.5/5 |
Durability | 4.5/5 |
Longevity | 4/5 |
Features: Diameter: .095” | Length: 855’ | Weight: 3.1 lbs | Color: Orange | Shape: Round
What We Liked
- Durable against most surfaces
- Smooth and precise cuts
- Highly effective against tough weeds and hedges
What We Didn’t Like
- Some lines did break easier than others
With a wallet-friendly price tag, this trimmer line from Maxpower is a no-brainer for most landscaping needs.
Here’s a look at what we had to say about this product!
Durability
The trimmer line is made of strong nylon material. It was able to withstand anything from light grass trimming to medium yard work and hedge trimming.
When working around edges, this line proved to be hardwearing. Even against light rocks or rough surfaces the line did well.
Yet, on occasion the line did break upon repeated impact with hard surfaces like driveways or pavement.
Longevity
Coming in at a length of 855’ this trimmer line was in it for the long haul. Not only that, but the substantial durability of the product offered a great life span for many uses.
Effectiveness
Whether this product was used for cutting through woody weeds or trimming up the lawn we weren’t disappointed.
Without fail, this trimmer line was able to swiftly make precise cuts, allowing us to maintain any property.
See Price on Amazon5. Best Grass Trimmer Line: Stihl Trimmer Line Orange 1 Lb Roll
Product Ratings
Affordability | 4/5 |
Effectiveness | 4/5 |
Durability | 4.5/5 |
Longevity | 4.5/5 |
Features: Diameter: .095” | Length: 280’ | Weight: 1 lb | Color: Orange | Shape: Round
What We Liked
- Fair price
- Works against some tough grass and weeds
- Medium length line
What We Didn’t Like
- Line isn’t as durable as expected
Perfect for maintaining a polished look on your lawn, you can rely on this trimmer line for most weed or grass trimming and cutting!
By the way, be sure to check out our article on the Best Oscillating Sprinklers to keep your lawn looking fresh!
Want to know what brought this product to number 5 on our Top Picks list? Keep reading to see what we discovered!
Durability
When put to the test, this trimmer line provided sufficient resistance for the most part. It withstood most trimming and cutting, especially of lighter vegetation.
However, against some thick grass, heavier weeds, and harder and rougher surfaces this trimmer line wasn’t quite as durable as we’d like.
Longevity
At 280’ this certainly isn’t the longest line on our list, but it’s a decent length to get a few years of use.
Additionally, the .095” diameter of the timer line calls for a bit more thickness and durability, therefore added longevity.
As mentioned, due to the strength of the trimmer line against more solid surfaces it did not last as long as we would have liked it to at times.
Effectiveness
Stihl Trimmer line is a product well known for its ability to get the job done right. When trimming grass, this line created a smooth and efficient cut.
Cutting most weeds was a breeze as well, and the trimmer line didn’t seem to snag on any light greenery.
See Price on Amazon6. Best Heavy Duty Trimmer Line: Oregon Heavy-Duty Professional Magnum Gatorline Square String Trimmer Line
Product Ratings
Affordability | 3.5/5 |
Effectiveness | 4/5 |
Durability | 4.5/5 |
Longevity | 4.5/5 |
Features: Diameter: .155” | Length: 246’ | Weight: 3 lbs | Color: Light Blue | Shape: Square
What We Liked
- Great against heavy vegetation
- USA manufactured
- Thick, durable line
What We Didn’t Like
- Not resistant against harder surfaces (rocks, fences) and broke easier than we expected
A well known brand for landscaping tools, parts and accessories, you won’t be disappointed by this trimmer line from Oregon!
Durability
Oregon is a reputable brand in the landscape and forestry industry, offering quality manufactured products right from Oregon, USA!
Their trimmer line proved to be hard wearing against most tough weeds, and some of the tallest and thickest grass.
Thanks to its square shape it was able to handle cutting most vegetation and along the edges of turf. The design made it very resistant and strong against heavy weeds.
Many people don’t know that the shape of the trimmer line is just as important as length and diameter.
Check out this video that explains the trimmer line shapes and demonstrates their uses:
Longevity
This 3-pound spool comes in at a length of 280’ meaning it’ll last you quite some time! Not only that, the efficiency and dual polymer material gives this trimmer line a great lifespan.
The Oregon Heavy-Duty Professional Magnum Gatorline Square String Trimmer Line was definitely designed to last!
Effectiveness
Oregon offers a trimmer line in multiple shapes, including Square, Round, and SuperTwist. The square shape creates multiple edges for a better cut.
The efficiency and strength of the line makes it great for troublesome grass and pesky weeds.
See Price on Amazon7. Best Weed Eater Trimmer Line: Weed Eater 588937905 .080″ x 100′ Round Trimmer Line
Product Ratings
Affordability | 5/5 |
Effectiveness | 4/5 |
Durability | 3.5/5 |
Longevity | 3.5/5 |
Features: Diameter: .080” | Length: 150’ | Weight: 7.2 oz | Color: Light Green | Shape: Round
What We Liked
- Extremely affordable
- Good for light yard work
- Good for edges and trimming
What We Didn’t Like
- Not the most hardwearing
Great for keeping your acreage impeccable, and weed free at an extremely competitive price, last on our list is Weedeater Round String Trimmer Line.
Continue reading for more info on how this trimmer line made the list!
Durability
This round trimmer line was available for a low price compared to others on this list. With that, it didn’t offer quite as much durability as the others did.
It maintained integrity for most light work but did show wear and tear over time.
Longevity
As mentioned the durability of this line means a spool may not last as long as some competitors. Yet, given the price point you do get more line for your buck.
Weed Eater Trimmer Line is so cost friendly you could buy it three times, and still spend less than alternative options!
This was not the most withstanding trimmer line, and probably won’t hold up against heavy duty wok, but it’ll definitely pull through for a bit with light maintenance and upkeep.
Effectiveness
Given the .080” diameter and the lower quality of the material, this line was most efficient for light yard work. This trimmer line was great for short grass, and younger or thinner weeds.
We noticed the line was also good for trimming near paved edges, and getting between rocks.
Not really interested in a line trimmer for cutting grass? Consider looking into a Finish Mower instead, we reviewed the top options!
See Price on AmazonComparison Chart
Products | Best Overall | Runner Up | Best .080 Line | Best Maxpower Line | Best Grass Line | Best Heavy Duty | Best Weed Eater |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Overall Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.1/5 | 4/5 |
Affordability | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | 5/5 |
Effectiveness | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Durability | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
Longevity | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
The Winner
In the end, there was no denying Cyclone Desert Extrusion .095” x 855’ Commercial Trimmer Line is the Best Overall pick! When using this line you can expect quality cuts time and time again!
How to Decide Which Trimmer Line Fits Your Needs
There are many different features to a simple line that will ultimately affect their performance.
The type of trimmer line you buy depends on your own personal needs, and what you look to accomplish with the line.
It’s important to look at these aspects when looking for a trimmer line:
Features
When looking for the right trimmer line for you, consider how it will be utilized. Is it for your own property, or will it be used commercially?
Do you need a precise clean cut to trim the grass? Or, do you need a tough line that’ll take down the toughest weeds and bramble?
Consider the features of the line, how long it is (lifespan) and the strength of it (durability) to decide if it’ll perform as expected. Furthermore, know that you should look for a trimmer line that features weld resistance.
With friction comes heat, and this heat can actually melt and weld the line in place. Welding can usually occur when the line is directly, and forcefully exposed to rough surfaces like concrete.
Many trimmer line products are weld resistant so you don’t have to worry too much!
Shape
Trimmer lines come in varying shapes from round, to spiral and many shapes in between. The reason for this is the shape creates a different cut from the line.
A square shape line will have more sides than a round line, and therefore offer more bladed surfaces to make cuts. Spiral line offers less air resistance, and in turn is much quieter than other types.
Here’s some features of common trimmer line shapes:
- Round: Aerodynamic, Quiet, Durable, Strong, Versatile
- Square: Durable, Rigid, Sharp, Precise
- Spiral: Strong, Durable, Quiet, Abrasive Cut
Compatibility
Many trimmer lines on the market are compatible with most line trimmers. However, some are exclusive to their brand. Others are just incompatible with some line trimmers due to size or design.
Always make sure your line trimmer will be compatible with the line you purchase.
Honorable Mentions
Here’s a brief look at the 3 options that didn’t make the best trimmer lines list!
1. Best Spiral Twist Trimmer Line: LoNoiz Commercial Grade Spiral Twist Quiet 1-Pound Grass Trimmer Line
This spiral twist trimmer line is just as the name suggests, “quiet”, and does its job well. This line is perfect for any urban dwellers not trying to anger their neighbor at 9 am!
While we did consider this trimmer line for our Top Picks as best Spiral Twist Trimmer Line, we decided to mention Vortex Trimmer Line .095 X 1140′ 5 Large Spool instead, as we feel you get just a bit more quality with this product.
2. Best Husqvarna Trimmer Line: Husqvarna Titanium Force String Trimmer Lines
Husqvarna is a solid brand that offers a quality trimmer line.
The Titanium Force string trimmer line is designed with commercial grade copolymer making it quite durable, strong, and reliable. This line can take a beating from a rock or two with ease!
This is a great choice for a trimmer line, and you won’t be disappointed if you buy it. But, we recommend Oregon Heavy-Duty Professional Magnum Gatorline Square String Trimmer Line if you’re solely looking for that rugged durability in a line.
3. Best Budget Trimmer Line: Weed Warrior Bi-Component Twist Trimmer Line
You can practically get this trimmer line for free, it costs so little! You may not be able to trim bush branches or stubborn weeds, but this trimmer line is great for simple landscaping like cutting grass.
For a trimmer line at a similar price that will offer a little more durability and longevity, we suggest you go with the Weed Eater Round Trimmer Line.